What to Plant Near Fruit Trees
Planting the right companions near fruit trees can maximize your yield, improve soil fertility, and deter pests. Here are some of the best plants for growing alongside fruit trees:
Clover
Clover is a perennial ground cover that can help fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility and promoting healthy fruit trees. Clover also attracts beneficial insects that can help pollinate your fruit trees, while deterring harmful pests.
Comfrey
Comfrey is known for its deep roots that bring up nutrients from deep in the soil. As a result, it can improve soil fertility and supply your fruit trees with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Plus, Comfrey’s large leaves can also serve as a mulch, conserving soil moisture and reducing weed growth.
Daffodils
Daffodils are a classic companion plant for fruit trees, as they can help deter pests such as deer, rabbits, and rodents. These attractive bulbs also bloom early in the spring, before your fruit trees blossom, bringing color and beauty to your orchard.
Garlic
Garlic is another pest deterrent that can help keep your fruit trees healthy. Its strong aroma can keep deer, rabbits, and other animals away, while its natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties can help prevent diseases from spreading in your orchard.
Chives
Chives are a hardy, perennial herb that can thrive in the shade of fruit trees. Their strong aroma can help repel insects that can damage or destroy your fruit trees without negatively affecting the pollinators that you need for a good harvest.
Conclusion
By planting the right companions near your fruit trees, you can improve your soil fertility, reduce pests and diseases, and maximize your harvest. Consider adding some of these plants to your orchard and watch as your trees thrive and produce abundant, healthy fruit.